Season 14 of Chicago Fire kicks off with new faces, big changes, and one character already making waves — Sal Vasquez. Played by Brandon Larracuente, Vasquez arrives at Firehouse 51 with swagger to spare, but beneath the bravado lies a complex firefighter who may surprise viewers.
First Impressions: Cocky and Confident
In promotional footage released ahead of the premiere, fans quickly see Vasquez’s ego in action. During his very first exchange with Lieutenant Stella Kidd, she reminds him he’s stepping into the shoes of an incredible driver. Vasquez, unfazed, fires back that his predecessor was “not as good as [him].”
It’s a bold introduction that instantly signals trouble. Even Larracuente admits his character’s self-assurance could rub both fans and fellow firefighters the wrong way.
“Sal is really confident in his ability to be a firefighter. He’s extremely sure of himself… that can be mistaken for cockiness,” the actor explained to NBC.
Layers Beneath the Ego
But Vasquez isn’t as one-dimensional as he first appears. Larracuente teased that the bravado is more armor than arrogance — and cracks will soon begin to show.
“As the season progresses, that self-assurance in himself starts to break because of the things happening around him,” he revealed. “On the surface, he may appear a certain way. But as we peel back the layers, it starts to bleed and affect the other characters in the show.”
The actor hinted that Firehouse 51 will play a major role in his growth, with Vasquez ultimately relying on his new team to get through personal struggles.
A Character in Transition
Larracuente suggested that Vasquez’s storyline will dive deep into family issues and strained relationships, themes that have defined many One Chicago arcs in the past. Watching him crumble — and be lifted by his fellow firefighters — promises emotional resonance alongside the high-stakes rescues.
“For me, that’s what makes it interesting,” Larracuente added. “You get to see a tough exterior break down, and the family around him build him back up.”
Why Fans Should Give Him a Chance
While some viewers may be put off by Vasquez’s arrogance early on, longtime fans know Chicago Fire excels at introducing characters who grow into fan favorites. From Severide’s brooding streak to Carver’s troubled past, first impressions rarely tell the whole story.
And with Larracuente’s proven performances in 13 Reasons Why, The Good Doctor, and On Call, Vasquez could evolve into one of the most compelling additions yet.
When to Watch
Chicago Fire Season 14 premieres Wednesday, October 1 at 9/8c on NBC, with next-day streaming on Peacock.
